Things To Do
Original Mast General Store
Asheville - Just a short scenic drive away, the Asheville location brings that same historic charm to a mountain town beloved for its art galleries, cafes, and small‑town appeal. Here you’ll find the Mast General Store’s signature mix of classic goods and local flavor — perfect for picking up souvenirs, outdoor essentials, or something special to remember your visit. The Mast General Store blends history, hospitality, and old‑world shopping fun for all ages. Valle Crucis - Step back in time at the Olde Mast General Store, a treasured North Carolina tradition dating back to 1883 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The original Valle Crucis location features creaky wooden floors, a pot‑bellied stove, and a mix of goods from old-fashioned candy to outdoor gear. Mail a letter from the antique post office, then linger a little longer to enjoy a nostalgic treat while playing a friendly game of checkers.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
If you have extra time, make the one-hour drive west, just outside Asheville, in Mills River, you’ll find Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., a can’t-miss destination for craft beer lovers. The brewery features a beautiful taproom, restaurant, outdoor fire pits, and guided tours of the facility. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon surrounded by mountain views.
Black Mountain
Black Mountain is a quaint mountain town with welcoming small-town charm and plenty to explore. Stroll through its downtown streets and enjoy a meal at My Father’s Pizza and Pasta or Trailhead Restaurant, where Noah asked for Mary’s hand in marriage. As you explore the shops, enjoy a cup of coffee from The Dripolator Coffeehouse, and soak in the cozy galleries, boutiques, and scenic mountain atmosphere that make Black Mountain so special.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is a charming mountain town with adventures for everyone. Stroll downtown boutiques and galleries, hike trails at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park or Julian Price Park, enjoy lakeside walks, picnics, or kayaking, and don’t miss The Blowing Rock cliff with its stunning views. With cozy cafes, casual dining, and year-round events, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend escape in the High Country.
Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a welcoming destination that celebrates the life, ministry, and legacy of evangelist Billy Graham. Set on a beautiful, park-like campus, the Library offers interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and memorabilia that trace Graham’s journey from small-town preacher to global spiritual leader. Visitors can explore recreated spaces, historical photographs, and artifacts, gaining insight into his commitment to faith, service, and outreach. The grounds feature peaceful gardens, walking paths, and the historic Graham family home, providing a serene environment for reflection. With its mix of history, storytelling, and uplifting messages, the Billy Graham Library is both an educational experience and a place of inspiration for all ages.
Whitewater center
The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers thrilling outdoor adventures, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, rock climbing, and ziplining. Guests can also enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails, plus seasonal festivals, dining, and live music—all set along the scenic Catawba River.
Beanstalk Ziplines
For a fun outdoor adventure near Hidden Hill Venue, check out Beanstalk Ziplines at Catawba Meadows Park. This family‑friendly zipline and aerial adventure course lets you soar through a “giant beanstalk village” of interconnected treehouses connected by sky bridges and five thrilling zip lines ending in a 520‑foot megazip — great for both kids and adults alike.
Lake James State Park
Lake James State Park – Nebo, NC Lake James State Park is a beautiful outdoor destination offering scenic hiking, biking, and water‑based fun on one of North Carolina’s most picturesque lakes. Trails include family‑friendly paths, historic routes like the Overmountain Victory Trail, and bike loops through forested areas. Visitors can swim at the seasonal beach, fish for bass, trout, and more, or bring a boat to explore the lake from the water. The park also offers picnic areas, bike paths, and plenty of spots to relax by the shore of Lake James.
Fonta Flora Brewery - Whippoorwill Farm
Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton offers two distinct experiences. The downtown location is a lively, community-focused space with a rotating selection of small-batch beers and occasional live music. Just outside town, Whippoorwill Farm, near Lake James, provides a scenic, nature-inspired setting with spacious outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying beers while taking in the landscape. Fonta Flora crafts its own beers with a focus on local ingredients, including regional fruits, herbs, and grains, giving each brew a unique Appalachian character. Together, the two locations showcase the brewery’s creativity, dedication to craft, and connection to Morganton’s community and the surrounding foothills.
Silver Fork Winery
Silver Fork Winery offers a uniquely relaxing wine experience set against the scenic foothills of western North Carolina. Known for its European-style wines crafted to reflect the region’s mountain terroir, the winery pairs quality vintages with sweeping views of the South Mountains. Its inviting tasting room, outdoor patio, and frequent live music create a laid-back atmosphere where guests can unwind, sip, and enjoy the natural beauty—making Silver Fork a standout destination for both wine lovers and casual visitors alike.
Ingenious Coffee Roasters
Ingenious Coffee Roasters is nestled in downtown Marion, North Carolina, a charming small town framed by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest. This community-centered café and roastery is known for its freshly roasted, expertly crafted beans and specialty drinks, all prepared on-site in small batches. Guests can enjoy a full espresso bar and a welcoming atmosphere where you can even watch the roasting process in action. With a passion for quality and service, Ingenious offers a range of artisan blends, flavored coffees, and espresso selections that delight both casual coffee drinkers and aficionados alike. Whether stopping in for a signature brew or grabbing a bag of beans to take home, this local favorite perfectly combines craftsmanship, community, and the beauty of Marion’s mountain setting.